Ready in: 45 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Baking · Storage: Up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Quick Answer
This Baked Parmesan Garlic Chicken is a flavorful and simple dish perfect for holiday gatherings.
As the leaves crunch beneath my boots and the crisp autumn air carries a hint of smoke from nearby chimneys, I find myself immersed in the spirit of the season here in New York City. With Thanksgiving and Christmas just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to gather friends and family around the dinner table and create memorable meals. Today, I’m excited to share with you a delicious recipe for Baked Parmesan Garlic Chicken that’s sure to become a holiday favorite in your home.
A Savory Holiday Delight
This dish brings together the comforting flavors of garlic and Parmesan, making it an ideal centerpiece for any festive gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple and quick preparation makes it perfect for busy weeknights.
- The crispy Parmesan crust adds a delicious flavor that everyone will love.
- It’s a versatile dish that pairs well with seasonal sides.
- Perfect for impressing guests while keeping cooking stress-free.
- Leftovers are just as tasty and easy to reheat.
Ingredients
Before diving into the recipe, here’s what you’ll need to create this finger-licking dish:
Main Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup of breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crunch)
- 2 teaspoons of garlic powder (or fresh minced garlic)
- 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, melted
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How to Make Baked Parmesan Garlic Chicken (Step-by-Step)
Now, let’s get started on preparing this delicious dish!
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
First things first! I always begin by preheating my oven to 400°F (200°C). This allows for an even cooking temperature and a beautifully crisp exterior on the chicken.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Breasts
While the oven warms up, I place the chicken breasts on a clean cutting board. With a clear mindset, I season them generously with salt and pepper. This step is vital, as it lays the foundation for flavor throughout the dish.
Step 3: Make the Coating
In a large bowl, I combine the panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The aroma of the cheese mingling with the garlic powder is heavenly and fills my kitchen with anticipation.
Step 4: Arrange and Coat
I then pour the melted butter into a shallow dish for easy access. Dipping each chicken breast first into the butter ensures the breadcrumbs adhere nicely. I then coat the breasts in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down firmly so every inch is covered. Place the coated chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet—this also makes for easy cleanup!
Step 5: Bake the Chicken
Once the chicken is well-coated and arranged, I slide it into the preheated oven. I bake it for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. As the chicken bakes, I enjoy the nutty aroma of the Parmesan turning golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
When the chicken is finished baking, I pull it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before garnishing it with fresh parsley. The vibrant green adds a pop of color against the golden brown crust.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget to season the chicken before coating. It’s a pivotal step that adds flavor to the meat itself.
- Not using a meat thermometer: Always check the internal temperature to avoid undercooked chicken.
- Settling for pre-grated cheese: For this recipe, fresh-grated Parmesan offers better flavor and texture compared to the pre-packaged stuff.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- For a touch of heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
- If you like a garlicky bite, consider using fresh garlic—2 to 3 cloves minced—mixed with the butter before coating the chicken.
- Pair this dish with seasonal sides like roasted Brussels sprouts or a vibrant fall salad for a complete meal.
Variations
- Swap chicken breasts for thighs for a juicier option.
- Use different types of cheese such as Asiago or Pecorino for a unique flavor.
- Replace half of the breadcrumbs with crushed nuts for extra crunch and flavor.
- Infuse the butter with herbs like thyme or rosemary for added depth.
How to Serve
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
- Pair with a side of mashed potatoes or a light pasta salad.
- Add a sprinkle of lemon juice for a zesty finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken up to a day in advance; just coat it and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to maintain crispiness.
- Freezing: This dish can be frozen before baking; wrap the coated chicken tightly and store for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding additional cooking time.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Taking on this recipe reminded me of the joy of simple, flavorful cooking, especially as we transition into a season filled with gatherings and celebrations. It’s also a foolproof way to impress your guests while keeping things uncomplicated in the kitchen.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~370 calories · 30g protein · 20g carbs · 20g fat
Flavorful Baked Parmesan Garlic Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) for even cooking.
- Season chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper.
- Combine breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan in a large bowl.
- Dip chicken in melted butter, then coat in breadcrumb mixture and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until chicken reaches 165°F internally.
- Let rest for a few minutes, garnish with parsley, and serve.
Notes
FAQs
What can I serve with Baked Parmesan Garlic Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with seasonal sides like roasted Brussels sprouts, mashed potatoes, or a vibrant fall salad. You can also serve it alongside pasta or a light grain like quinoa for a complete meal.
Can I use skin-on chicken for this recipe?
While the recipe calls for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for even cooking and crispiness, you can use skin-on chicken if you prefer. Just adjust the baking time accordingly to ensure it’s cooked through.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, it’s best to use the oven to keep the chicken crispy—about 10-15 minutes at 350°F should be sufficient.
